adventure Center at Waterville Valley
Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing
(603) 236-4666
1 Ski Area Road, PO Box 540, Waterville Valley, NH 03215
The Adventure Center at Waterville Valley has approximately 70 km of trails, which are groomed and tracked for skating and classic skiing through the White Mountain National Forest. This cross-country center is known for its wide trails, which are dependably well groomed for both classic and skate skiing. Waterville is nestled in a high valley within a ring of mountains in the White Mountain National Forest. The town is a planned community where everything is at a skier's fingertips. There's the great trails, a fitness center, indoor skating rink, and the Town Square (where the Adventure Center is located), which features a variety of restaurants and shops. But most significantly, Waterville Valley and its services and amenities make it great for families.
Waterville has two separate trail networks including the South End and the North End, which can be accesseed by skis or by driving. Snowshoers are welcome to trek along the edge of the trails. Trails lead to easily accessible points of wonder including Greeley Ponds, Snow's Mountain, Cascade Brook, and the Big Pines. Ask for assistance at the Adventure Center to reach these destinations.
The North End trails are at a higher elevation and can be accessed off the Tripoli Road to a parking lot at Depot Camp. A National Forest parking pass for this lot is needed and it is included when you obtain the trail pass at the center. The trails in this area will remain open while many other trail systems are shut down. You can get there by shuttle or by car and if the lot is overcrowded you can use the alpine ski area lots (4 or 6) and ski down the Pipeline Trail.
You can bring your dog on the first half kilometer of the Livermore Trail in the North End which leads to an ungroomed USFS trail, but the Forest Service requires that the dog be leashed. Dogs are also allowed on the Village Trail from the Town Square, but Fido is not allowed on the other trails.
Rentals and lessons are available at the Adventure Center, as are guided cross-country ski and snowshoe tours for all levels and ages. Daily tickets cost $23. There are lower rates for teen (13-18), Youth (6-12) and seniors (65+). XC ski equipment rentals are $24. Lower rates apply to teen, youth, and seniors. Snowshoes are $18 for the day and $16 for teens, and $15 for youth and seniors. Fat bke rentals are $51 for a full day and $41 for a half day including the trail pass.
The Nordic Snowsports School features a learn to ski lesson package for $54 with lesson, trail fee and rental. A 1-hour private lesson package is $79.
When the trail adventures are over, check out the clothing, equipment, and accessory products in the retail area located in the center. Leading companies of XC ski equipment and clothing are represented and the center's knowledgeable staff can help you select the right items to fill your needs. There are also horse-drawn sleigh rides and ice skating at the indoor ice arena.
Waterville Valley is located on Route 49, 11 miles from Exit 28 on Route I-93. It is about 2 hours from Boston. Once in the area, follow the signs to the Nordic center. CCSAA area.